Feature Races

Who To Watch

Melbourne Cup Carnival 2018 - What to Expect on and off the Track

Undoubtedly one of the world’s most renowned and popular racing festivals, the Melbourne Cup Carnival attracts more than 310,000 spectators to Flemington over four race days each year. Here’s what you can look forward to on and off the track during the week.

The Race That Stops the Nation and More!

Featuring eight Group 1 races across four thrilling days, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is a thoroughbred racing lover’s delight. The jewel in the crown is the $7.3 Lexus Melbourne Cup, the richest handicap race in the world where 24 hopefuls from Australia and overseas battle it out over 3200m for a place in sporting history.

For the true purists, the prestigious Derby Day is a must-attend featuring a stacked card of nine Group races including four at elite Group 1 level. The headlining AAMI Victoria Derby, worth over AUD $2 million, is Australia's premier staying classic for three year olds. Other Group 1 races to look out for across the carnival include the Coolmore Stud Stakes, Kennedy Mile, Kennedy Oaks, VRC Stakes and Mackinnon Stakes.

A Fashion Lover’s Haven

Alongside premier Group racing, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is also well known for its high fashion stakes, giving racegoers a chance to show off their sartorial prowess and embrace the latest spring trends.

Myer Fashions on the Field, Australia’s largest and most prestigious outdoor fashion event is an iconic celebration of racewear that showcases the unique style and incredible creations of women, men and families from around Australia. Held in The Park precinct, be sure to stop by for some fashion inspiration with the National Finals held on Kennedy Oaks Day.

Foodie’s Delight

Because you can’t cheer on an empty stomach, our friends at Flemington have rounded up some of Melbourne’s best food destinations to pop up across the Melbourne Cup Carnival. In The Park you’ll find street food faves including Easey’s, Drumplings and Takeaway Pizza plus delicious cocktails at Bar Schweppes and beers from James Squire and Furphy.

If you’re lucky enough to have secured a spot in the brand new VRC Club Stand, you’re seriously spoilt for choice with 13 drinking and dining options to choose from including the enviable rooftop garden and glamorous G.H. Mumm Champagne Bar.

Entertainment and Live Music Galore

If you love a party, The Park is the place for you with endless options for fun. Stop by the Absolute Electric Avenue for a boogie on the light up dance floor, experience the grown-up sized ball bit at Ador-a-ball or flash your Bumble app at Bumble Place to enjoy complimentary hair and makeup touch-ups before striking a pose on the mini horse carousel.

Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes as some of Australia’s hottest music acts take to The Park stage throughout the Melbourne Cup Carnival, featuring headliners The Presets, Amy Shark, Miami Horror and Conrad Sewell. If that wasn’t enough, British superstar Sam Smith will perform in the Mounting Yard on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day prior to the big race!